Defense Ventures Program

The Defense Ventures Program recognized that venture capital models and innovation practices could strengthen DOD's approach to startup partnerships and defense technology acquisition. By embedding military personnel in venture environments, the program aimed to:

• Bring Silicon Valley venture culture to Pentagon decision-making
• Make DOD a better customer for defense startups
• Build relationships between military and entrepreneurial communities
• Accelerate adoption of venture-backed defense technologies

Over its 5-year operation, the program coincided with dramatic increase in venture capital investment in defense technologies: $135 billion in 5 years (2019-2024) vs. $40 billion in prior 5-year period.

The Defense Ventures Program aimed to integrate military personnel into the venture capital ecosystem to enhance the Department of Defense's innovation capabilities. By embedding military officers and civilians in venture environments, the program sought to foster a culture of innovation and improve the DOD's engagement with defense startups.

Future applicants should demonstrate a strong interest in innovation and venture capital, along with a commitment to the fellowship's duration.

Participants needed to be active-duty military officers or enlisted personnel, or DOD civilians, with a commitment to an 8-week fellowship and an interest in innovation and venture capital.

Eligibility included active-duty military officers, enlisted personnel, and DOD civilians with a high potential designation from military leadership.

Participants gained immersive experiences, network building with venture capitalists, career development opportunities, and maintained their military status.

The program lasted for 8 weeks, with cohorts running over a 5-year period before closure in March 2024.

Many alumni of the program transitioned into roles within defense technology or venture capital, leveraging their experiences to influence military acquisition strategies.